Canada's agriculture and agri-food sector is a key contributor to our quality of life, accounting for roughly one in eight jobs and 8.3 per cent of the total Gross Domestic Product. That's why the sector needs to have the right tools to stay healthy, not just for today, but for the long run.

In recognition of this need, federal, provincial and territorial Ministers of Agriculture developed a comprehensive strategy to help the sector chart a course to continued prosperity and profitability. This strategy, in place since 2003, has been dubbed the Agricultural Policy Framework (APF).

To achieve its objective, the APF aims to position Canada as the world leader in food safety, innovation and environmentally responsible agricultural production.

The APF is made up of the following five complementary elements:

• Business Risk Management
• Food Safety and Quality
• Science and Innovation
• Environment
• Renewal

For a printable version of federal, provincial and territorial programs, you can download the PDF version of the APF Program Book [ PDF Help ].

The APF is the result of consultations among governments and a wide range of groups and individuals. Please take some time to learn more about the APF, and how governments engaged on a dialogue with Canadians.

The current bilateral agreements are set to expire in 2008 and federal, provincial and territorial governments are working with stakeholders to develop the next generation of agriculture and agri-food policy. Federal, provincial and territorial governments will once again be looking for input from Canadians. Through public consultations taking place in January and February 2007, Canadians will have the opportunity to provide input and advice on how to best ensure a competitive and profitable agriculture sector for years to come. Find out how you can participate.